Psychiatric Bulletin (2009) 33: 124-126. doi: 10.1192/pb.bp.108.019943
© 2009 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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Multi-agency working: challenges in getting it right

Floriana Coccia, Senior House Officer

Bushey Fields Hospital, Bushey Fields Road, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 2LZ, email: floriana.coccia{at}yahoo.co.uk

Kate Robertson, Senior House Officer

Bushey Fields Hospital, Dudley

Declaration of interest

None.

AIMS AND METHOD

Multidisciplinary approaches to complex cases referred to child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) are both mandated and necessary. However, multidisciplinary working is time-consuming and resource-intensive, especially where processes are not functioning optimally. We describe a completed audit cycle: auditing the consultation and liaison service within a community CAMHS, introducing service modifications and repeating the audit 6 months later.

RESULTS

During the first audit over 80% of data were lost; in the re-audit only 30% were lost. Audit results were successfully used to stimulate, design and implement change, with service improvement.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Auditing the process of interdisciplinary consultations is challenging, but possible. Where staff seek service improvement, audit can result in positive change without alienating staff.